Plot Summary

The Afterlife

Donald Antrim
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The Afterlife

Nonfiction | Autobiography / Memoir | Adult | Published in 2006

Book Brief

Donald Antrim

The Afterlife

Nonfiction | Autobiography / Memoir | Adult | Published in 2006
Book Details
Pages

208

Format

Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction

Theme
Publication Year

2006

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

In The Afterlife, Donald Antrim chronicles his troubled relationship with his manipulative and alcoholic mother, Louanne Self, following her death. The memoir delves into themes of familial dysfunction, mental health, and personal identity, as Antrim reflects on his upbringing and struggles to reconcile his feelings about his mother. The book includes explicit descriptions of alcoholism, abuse, and neglect.

Contemplative

Mysterious

Melancholic

Emotional

Reviews & Readership

3.9

685 ratings

58%

Loved it

31%

Mixed feelings

11%

Not a fan

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

Donald Antrim's The Afterlife receives praise for its vivid portrayal of familial relationships and introspective depth. The memoir resonates with readers through its raw emotion and craftsmanship. However, some find its narrative structure disjointed and pacing uneven. Overall, it is a compelling, if occasionally challenging, read.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Afterlife?

Readers who appreciate dark humor and introspective narratives will enjoy Donald Antrim's The Afterlife. Fans of David Sedaris and Augusten Burroughs, especially those who relished Me Talk Pretty One Day and Running with Scissors, will find Antrim's blend of wit and poignancy compelling.

3.9

685 ratings

58%

Loved it

31%

Mixed feelings

11%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

208

Format

Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction

Theme
Publication Year

2006

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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